In the fourth instalment of our MentorSpeak series, we delve into a reservoir of insights for aspiring interior designers. Our recent interview features Snehanshu Mukherjee, an MIT alumnus and the founding partner of T.E.A.M., where he takes us through his professional journey and offers valuable insights into the importance of upskilling.
At AND, we hold the conviction that achieving mastery in design hinges on establishing seamless communication between mentors and learners. In line with this ethos, we are pleased to provide a glimpse into a straightforward yet delightful conversation with Snehanshu Mukherjee on the ever- evolving and exciting space of interior design.
Snehanshu holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from SPA, New Delhi, and a postgraduate degree in Design & Housing from MIT, Cambridge, USA. With over 38 years of extensive experience in architecture and design, he serves as the founding partner of T.E.A.M (Team for Engineering Architecture and Management). Throughout his illustrious career, Snehanshu has successfully undertaken and delivered major projects for prestigious clients, including the Osho World Foundation in Delhi, the Embassy of Spain Chancery Building, Laxmi Mittal School of Management Studies, Oxford Bookstores, and The Tollygunge Club Library in Kolkata.
Our discussion originates from a general curiosity about Snehanshu's views on interior design and goes on to cover AND's courses and the significance of upskilling in the field.
Content:
- Could you kindly guide us through your professional journey and experience?
- How important is upskilling interior design?
- Do you think age is a restriction to learning interior design?
- Why do you want to teach at AND Academy?
- What career prospects and job opportunities await a learner upon successful completion of an interior design course at AND Academy?
- Would you have considered doing an online course when you were young?
- Is there any piece of advice you would like to share?
Q.1. Could you kindly guide us through your professional journey and experience?
I completed my academic studies in 1982, a period during which the landscape of the design industry markedly differed from its current state. Notwithstanding the evolution in the industry, the fundamental essence of design has endured. During my formative years, interior design was seamlessly integrated into the realm of architecture, requiring comprehensive training in both disciplines prior to graduation. The specialisation in interior design emerged subsequently.
In today’s context, prospective professionals in this field benefit from a more expansive scope, affording them the ability to navigate the profession with greater versatility than was previously feasible. Consequently, the demarcation between formally trained architects, dedicated interior designers, and those who engage in interior design without formal training has become less distinct. In my experience, the current landscape accommodates individuals who, despite lacking formal training, contribute meaningfully to the field.
Q.2. How important is upskilling interior design?
Undoubtedly, maintaining a static approach in one's design methodology is not viable. The dynamic nature of the industry introduces new products and diverse situations, necessitating adaptability. Effectively addressing these evolving challenges requires staying informed and current. Therefore, I firmly believe that upskilling is paramount for professionals in the field. Remaining abreast of industry developments is essential to navigate contemporary design landscapes with proficiency and relevance, and upskilling provides a disciplined approach to achieving the same.
Q.3. Do you think age is a restriction to learning interior design?
Not in the slightest. Personally, I have surpassed the conventional retirement age, yet this has not impeded my continued involvement in the field of design. Designing, in my view, is not bound by age constraints. It is a dynamic and inclusive endeavour that remains accessible to individuals at any stage of their professional journey. The capacity to engage in design is determined by passion, skill, and creativity rather than any arbitrary age-related restrictions.
Q.4. What inspired you to teach at AND Academy?
I was keen on the prospect of teaching at AND Academy for several reasons. Distinguishing itself from conventional courses available on platforms such as YouTube and Udemy, AND Academy embodies a distinctive approach to education. Its inception was inspired by the profound lessons learned during the pandemic, which necessitated an abrupt transition to online teaching models for design education. The prevailing scepticism regarding the feasibility of online design instruction was dispelled through a year-long experience, revealing that approximately 95% of the curriculum can be effectively delivered in the virtual realm.
What sets AND Academy apart is its departure from the commonplace. While the market is inundated with courses offering pre-recorded sessions geared towards a generic learner demographic, AND Academy is committed to tailoring its course delivery to meet the unique needs of each batch. The curriculum, akin to those found in traditional design colleges, is characterised by its comprehensiveness. However, the key distinction lies in its heightened accessibility and flexibility, attributes inherent to the online nature of the program. I am enthusiastic about contributing to this innovative approach to design education.
Q.5. What career prospects and job opportunities await a learner upon successful completion of an interior design course at AND Academy?
Completing an interior design course at AND Academy opens up a promising future. The field is rapidly growing, surpassing the rate of growth in architecture. Unlike architecture, where there's a limit to new constructions, interior design remains in constant demand. Commercial interiors, in particular, evolve continuously, and even residential spaces change over time based on the inhabitants' preferences. This dynamic nature ensures a growing demand for interior design professionals, offering diverse job roles in both commercial and residential interior design sectors.
Q.6. Would you have considered doing an online course when you were young?
When I was younger, the concept of an online interior design course wasn't conceivable due to the absence of the internet. The idea of pursuing education through the internet was not something that could have been contemplated during that era. The current viability of online courses is a testament to the widespread adoption and familiarity with internet usage in contemporary times. The accessibility and relevance of such courses today are deeply intertwined with the prevalent comfort and reliance on internet resources.
Q.7. Is there any piece of advice you would like to share with aspiring designers?
My foremost advice is to embark on a course only if you harbour genuine passion for it. This principle holds true for any course you may consider. Engaging in a field that doesn't genuinely interest you can prove to be a misguided decision. Passion is the driving force that sustains motivation and fosters a meaningful and fulfilling educational journey. Therefore, choose a path aligned with your true interests to ensure a rewarding and successful learning experience.
What next?
We hope this open conversation with our mentorhas helped provide the answer to some burning questions in your mind about the field of Interior Design. If you’d like to explore further about AND Mentors, consider browsing through our MentorSpeak section, where we capture the perspectives of academicians and design professionals who mentor at AND.
If you're seeking more detailed information, our Design Blog provides in-depth insights into UX UI Design, Graphic Design, and Interior Design. For additional assistance or information, feel free to reach out to our Course Advisors.
Note: All information and/or data from external sources is believed to be accurate as of the date of publication.
